Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $31,350 in federal funding for the Brier Hill Fire District to purchase a new air compressor that will help them respond to emergencies more effectively. The funding was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.
“This is an important investment for the Brier Hill Fire District,” Senator Gillibrand said. “It is critical that our fire fighters have the proper up-to-date tools as they respond to emergencies. This federal grant will help update their equipment so our first responders can act quickly, effectively and safely to emergencies in our communities.”
Brier Hill Fire Chief Shawn MaCaulay said, “The new compressor will help our department to meet National Fire Protection Association standards and raise the level of safety for our firefighters.”
The Brier Hill Fire Department will use the federal funding to purchase a new air compressor that will allow them to save lives more effectively. The Brier Hill Fire District has 44 volunteer members who respond to close to 160 calls annually.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, established by FEMA within the Department of Homeland Security, is part of an effort to increase the nation’s emergency response preparation. This program provides federal funding to first responder organizations for the acquisition of personal protective equipment, firefighting vehicles, and emergency response equipment. The funds also help provide emergency response trainings.